Tag: Kochi

Indian bliss A train trip in India– this was on our bucket list since very long. So it was no question – to our second destination on our trip we go by train. We had ignored all warnings to make reservation for trains 2 month in advance. The day before we wanted to travel we simply walked into an agency in Fort Kochi and we were lucky. We got a second class non AC ticket for the next day to Kannur! Wow, travelling can sometimes be so easy. We were happy to leave Kochi. We liked the city, but our homestay was really awful and we were looking forward to a nice guesthouse.

And again, how lucky we were – we got a room in our first choice guesthouse. In the morning we took a taxi to Ernakulam (the train station of Fort Kochi). It was packed with people, most of them spending the night sleeping on the floor of a platform. We easily figured out where our train left, and after only 30 minutes we were on our way to North Kerala. Non AC was comfortable enough and anyway, the journey took only 6 hours. The landscape we passed was amazing

and we loved to observe life going by in the different train station we stopped at. The 6 hours passed quickly. In Kannur we wanted to take a Rickshaw to the homestay on Thottada Beach. But they refused to take us – so we had to take a taxi. Another scam as we discovered later on – but anyway, we bargained well for the taxi prize.
We were welcomed at the KK Heritage Homestay like old friends. The owner, Sreeranj, is simply amazing. He gave us his private room, as everything else was booked. The room was simple but perfectly clean and big. He stayed in the living room for our stay – we really felt bad about this, but he was just happy.

The setting of the homestay was out of this world: close to a small lagoon and just a couple of minutes from the amazing beach. This is one of those places where you arrive with no expectations – and you just stand there with your mouth wide open. 3 nights was by far too short. We enjoyed every single minute. The food was great, the beach left us speechless and at night we had great discussion with fellow visitors:

an amazing family from Belgium and one from Israel. Together we drank liters of Chai tea till late at night. Of course, we did not want to miss the famous theyyam, which is a very old form of Hinduism. In fact, it is believed to pre-date Hinduism. It is originating from folk dances performed during harvest celebrations. Especially the early morning performances are quite spectacular. That is why we got up at 3.30 am in the morning. A Rickshaw driver took us 30 minutes north of Kannur to a small temple in a village. The whole ceremony took about 1,5 hours and was really interesting. It ended with some blessings. Well, we were terribly tired, but it was worth it.

Thottada Beach and Ezhara Beach itself are stunning and empty beaches (just on sunday they fill up a bit with locals). You can walk along the shore for hours without meeting any people. There are a lot of big waves, but it is not dangerous to swim. It was pure bliss and exactly what we needed after our turbulent start in Kochi. And a big thank you to Sreeranj and his family.

Historical Places One of the most visited tourist destinations in India, Kerala is famous for its natural beauty as well as it’s many historical attractions. The state is known for its rich culture, architecture and landmarks from the bygone era. Down the years, it’s multifaceted inhabitants ranging from the royal families to the colonies of Dutch, Portuguese, Jews and Britishers have inspired a conglomeration of tradition and culture which is a delight for any history lover. You can book from many Kerala tour packages available to get the best holiday experience and get a peek into its glorious past.

Here are some of the magnificent palaces, grand forts and other architectural marvels of Kerala that you must-visit:

Bekal Fort, Kasaragod District

The largest fort in Kerala, it was built in 1650 AD by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi and is spread over an area of 40 acres. The massive structure looms 130 feet above the sea level and offers a magnificent view of the sea. The fort is shaped like a huge keyhole and is superbly maintained despite being such an old structure. It has been a witness to many battles fought against the invaders. It was constructed as a military base initially and at present is one of the top most attractions on your visit to God’s own country.

Mattancherry Palace, Kochi

Located in the port town of Kochi, this palace is one of the finest examples of a combination of Kerala style of architecture known as Nalukettu and the colonial designs. The palace is shaped as a quadrangle. It was constructed in the year 1557 by the Portuguese as a gift to the then king of Kochi. There is a temple at the centre of the courtyard and the palace boasts of a wonderful collection of different artefacts and murals which dates back to as early as 17th and 18th century.

Muniyara Dolmens, Munnar

Located in Munnar, these are spectacular prehistoric dolmens which are said to from the Neolithic age. The burial chambers above the ground are constructed with big stone slabs which are known as ‘megaliths’. This place is no less than heaven for historians and history enthusiasts as it is perfect to explore the ruins of such an old era. The Munnar holiday packages can be customised to suit your likings.

Jewish Synagogue, Kochi

The only functional synagogue among the seven synagogues of Kerala, dates back to 1568 and was built by the Paradesi Jews community. The elegant architecture along with the resplendent interiors will leave you mesmerised. The floor is made of hand painted tiles which adds an extra dimension to the grandeur of the place. This place is like a history treasure chest with the exhibits belonging to as early as the 4th century.

Tellicherry Fort, Thalassery, Kannur District

The fort which was constructed in 1708 by the East India Company is an imposing structure with marvellous engineering. The rectangle shaped fort surrounded by strong bastions on two corners and secret tunnels which opens into the sea has stood tall against the test of time.

4, Wayana

Located at Ambukutty Mala, these caves are a combination of three boulders. One of the large rocks has come out in the centre and transformed naturally into the shape of a shelter. Edakkal means a stone in between, hence the name of the place, Edakkal Caves. These rocks were discovered in 1894 by the then superintendent of Police, F. Fawcett. The walls inside the caves are filled with paintings and graphics of the medieval age. The interesting positioning of the rocks along with unique artwork is sure to leave you intrigued and enthralled. There are many other tourist places to visit in Wayanad.